Why is it considered important to bring an offering when going for a Guru's darshan, like with Sai Baba?

The practice of bringing an offering is a significant expression of devotion and respect. Chapter 35 touches upon this tradition directly, stating, 'It is not good to go empty-handed to the door of God, a priest, or a Guru.' In this chapter, we see the devotee Kaka consciously buying grapes to present to Baba before arriving for Darshan. This act is not about the material value of the gift but the sentiment behind it. The offering becomes a vehicle for the Guru's grace. In this particular story, the very grapes Kaka brought became the instrument for a profound miracle that transformed a skeptic, Boss Dharamsee, into a believer. Therefore, as illustrated in Chapter 35, the offering symbolizes the devotee's humility and readiness to receive, creating an opportunity for the Guru to bestow blessings and spiritual lessons.